The premiere of "The Empress" season 2, episode 1 unfolds with a poignant flashback to a youthful Franz, his innocent eyes filled with curiosity as he questions the Cardinal about God's allowance of war. In his youthful ignorance, Franz had envisioned himself donning a soldier's uniform and marching valiantly on the battlefield. Yet, Sophie gently disillusioned the young prince, revealing his true destiny: to lead and command soldiers from the rear, fighting for Austria rather than alongside them on the frontline.
In the present, the Royal Family is immersed in joyous celebrations marking the arrival of the throne's new heir. On the sacred day of his baptism, Elisabeth cradles the infant and introduces him to his older sister, Fienchen, whose memory remains etched in the hearts of Elisabeth and Franz, despite the years that have passed. Elisabeth's vigilance towards Sophie is palpable; she keeps a careful distance, rarely allowing Sophie to approach the young prince.
Elisabeth receives a letter from Leontine, devoid of a return address, sparking curiosity. Through Charlotte, she uncovers the startling revelation that Leontine was pregnant when she departed. This news finds its way to the Empress, who promptly shares it with Alexander.
Despite the euphoria surrounding the birth of the heir, Austria's future remains perilously balanced on a knife's edge. Buol's grim report indicates that the rebels in Lombardy-Venetia are gathering strength, with Garibaldi's influence spreading like wildfire. In a bid to shore up support, Sophie and Franz devise a strategy, hoping to forge a political alliance by marrying Elisabeth's younger sister, Mimi, to the Prince of Sicily.
Elisabeth, initially vehemently opposed to the idea, strives to persuade Mimi against it. However, Sophie, equally determined, launches her own campaign to convince Mimi of the merits of the match. Meanwhile, the unrest escalates; Garibaldi and his rebels riot nightly, while Buol warns of Piedmont's troop mobilization at the border. Gyulai urges a declaration of war on Piedmont, but Alexander voices his protest. Undeterred, Franz issues an ultimatum to Cavour, granting him three days to surrender and cease aiding the Lombardian rebels, hinting at the possibility of negotiations if they comply.
In the interim, Marie persuades Maximilian into believing that Franz is deliberately undermining him, motivated by a desire to see him fail from the outset. She presents him with a stark ultimatum, and together, they venture to the palace to confront Franz.
Upon their arrival, Franz receives shocking news: Napoleon is covertly funneling military arms to the rebels, who had previously seized the weapons from Austrian soldiers amidst a riot along the Piedmont border. The realization dawns upon Franz that he has inadvertently declared war not only on Piedmont but also on France. Displeased by this unexpected turn, he summarily dismisses Gyulai.
Furthermore, upon discovering the genuine rationale behind Buol's war-mongering fervor, Franz terminates his employment as well. Meanwhile, Cavour steadfastly refuses to capitulate, compelling Franz to reluctantly embark on a war path. Napoleon, gleeful at the prospect, gears up for Austria's downfall.
Napoleon skillfully outwits the Austrian army, inflicting a devastating toll of over 6,000 fatalities and countless maimings. Elisabeth, visiting both the soldiers and hospitals, is deeply disheartened by the widespread suffering she witnesses. Moved by their plight, she urges her sister to consent to a political marriage, hoping to rejuvenate the nation's spirit.
Franz demotes Maximilian from his position as viceroy, prompting Marie to accuse Franz of sabotaging Maximilian's reputation. Their heated debate escalates into another ultimatum from Marie, warning Maximilian to sever ties with his family.
Elsewhere, Alexander learns of Leontine's pregnancy and decides to quit his post. He implores Franz to seek redemption for his past sins before it's too late, expressing his inability to continue serving under such circumstances. Franz reluctantly grants him leave, yet Alexander's bravery in seeking atonement leaves a profound impact on him.
After enduring weeks of relentless defeats against the Piedmont rebels and Napoleon, Franz resolves to join his troops on the battlefield. Elisabeth, profoundly shaken by this revelation, yet pleas for her support. When Franz informs his family of his decision, Elisabeth and Franz present a united front, which enrages Sophie, who blames Elisabeth for Franz's actions.
Franz feels guilty asking his men to fight for the country while he remains safe in the palace. He is determined to prove his bravery and demonstrate that, like Napoleon, he can stand on the frontline. Maximilian offers to stay behind and replace Franz if the latter falls, but Franz clarifies that Elisabeth and his mother will take charge until his son comes of age. Maximilian, outraged, storms out with Marie.
As the season concludes, Franz bids farewell to his family and marches towards the frontline. Sophie maintains a brave face during their goodbye but collapses in tears once he leaves, fearing her efforts were in vain and questioning if she did enough to save her son and the kingdom. She accuses Elisabeth, who comforts her, leading to an emotional embrace between the two women as they acknowledge their shared sacrifices for the kingdom and cling to hope for a better future.
